Meet the 5 Game-Changing Finalists of TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
From space fintech to AI-powered biotech, these startups are redefining the future of innovation — and inspiring Africa’s next generation of disruptors.
After two days of intense pitches and live demos, TechCrunch has unveiled the five finalists for its prestigious Startup Battlefield 2025. Selected from thousands of applicants, these startups will compete for the coveted $100,000 equity-free grand prize and the iconic Startup Battlefield Cup this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. PT.
TechCrunch’s editorial team initially shortlisted 200 companies from a global pool of founders, narrowing them down to 20 semifinalists who pitched live on the Disrupt Stage. Now, with guidance from an expert judging panel, the top five innovators are set to make their final stand — and their ideas are nothing short of transformative.
1. Charter Space – Fintech for the Final Frontier
Charter Space is blurring the lines between aerospace and fintech. Its software captures manufacturing and test data from spacecraft, feeding an underwriting platform that connects directly to major insurers. The result? Faster, cheaper, and more accurate risk evaluation for spacecraft insurance — opening new credit opportunities for space startups. (Source: TechCrunch)
2. Glīd – Reinventing Cargo Movement
Pronounced “Glide,” this logistics innovator is tackling the inefficiency of moving containers from ship to rail. Its flagship product, the GliderM, is a hybrid-electric hauler that picks up 20-foot containers directly, reducing costs and eliminating the need for forklifts and hostler trucks. A breakthrough that resonates deeply with Africa’s port and logistics challenges.
3. MacroCycle – Closing the Loop on Plastic Waste
MacroCycle has found a shortcut to make recycled plastics as cheap as new materials. Its unique process doesn’t break down polymers; it loops them into macrocycles — circular chains that are purified into reusable fibers. This method could revolutionize textile recycling and contribute to Africa’s growing circular economy movement.
4. Nephrogen – AI Meets Kidney Gene Therapy
Biotech startup Nephrogen uses AI-driven screening to deliver gene-editing therapies precisely to kidney cells. Founder Demetri Maxim says the system is 100 times more efficient than existing delivery methods — a potential leap forward in kidney treatment. His personal battle with polycystic kidney disease adds a powerful human story to this scientific breakthrough.
5. Unlisted Homes – A Zillow for Hidden Properties
Unlisted Homes is flipping the real estate model by profiling 21 million U.S. homes not yet on the market. Instead of brokering deals, it monetizes by selling sponsorships to local agents, giving them visibility as “experts” within each ZIP code. The model could easily inspire African proptech innovators looking to digitize real estate discovery and marketing.
All five startups will return to the Disrupt Stage for the final round of pitches, streamed live on TechCrunch’s website. Beyond the $100,000 prize, the exposure from this global platform often attracts new investors, customers, and partnerships — the true value of Disrupt’s spotlight.
🧠 TechTribe-One Insight
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 reminds us that innovation isn’t bound by geography — it’s powered by vision. From fintech in orbit to sustainable recycling, these ideas echo the ambition of Africa’s own startup ecosystem. As African founders eye scale and impact, lessons from Disrupt’s finalists could spark the next big leap in regional tech transformation.